The Best BBQ Restaurants in NYC
The Best BBQ Restaurants in NYC:
New York City is known for its diverse food scene, and while you can find almost every type of cuisine imaginable, BBQ holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many New Yorkers. From smoky, tender brisket to perfectly charred ribs, NYC’s BBQ restaurants offer a variety of styles—from Southern classics to more innovative, modern twists. If you’re craving slow-cooked meat, sauce-drenched perfection, here’s a roundup of some of the best BBQ spots in the city.
1. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
Located in Harlem, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is an NYC BBQ legend. With locations in Brooklyn and Syracuse as well, this spot serves up some of the best BBQ in the city. Their St. Louis-style ribs, beef brisket, and pulled pork are packed with smoky flavor, and their sauces—whether you prefer tangy, spicy, or sweet—bring a depth of taste to each bite. The rustic, laid-back atmosphere makes it a great spot to gather with friends and savor some hearty dishes. The fried green tomatoes and cornbread are perfect sides to complement the BBQ feast.Must-Try: The “Pig Out” platter, which lets you sample the best of their meats.
2. Hometown Bar-B-Que
Located in Red Hook, Brooklyn, Hometown Bar-B-Que is a favorite for its unbeatable wood-fired flavors and eclectic offerings. The menu takes inspiration from Southern BBQ traditions, with a nod to global flavors. Their meats are smoked low and slow, and you’ll find everything from classic brisket and ribs to more unique options like smoked lamb belly and Korean-inspired short ribs. The spacious, industrial interior gives it a cool vibe, and they even have an impressive selection of craft beers to wash down your BBQ.Must-Try: The smoked brisket and the pork belly burnt ends are a must for BBQ lovers.
3. Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque
With multiple locations across NYC, Mighty Quinn’s has become one of the most well-known BBQ joints in the city. The focus here is on simplicity—smoked meat prepared with a perfect balance of spices, sauces, and wood flavors. Their meats are juicy and tender, with the brisket and pulled pork taking the lead. They also have some delicious sides like the creamy mac and cheese, collard greens, and their iconic burnt ends chili.Must-Try: The brisket, served with the house BBQ sauce and a side of their crispy fries.
4. Blue Smoke
Blue Smoke in the Flatiron District is a NYC BBQ institution. This spot combines a classic BBQ experience with upscale touches. Their meats are smoked for hours, resulting in rich, smoky flavors that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re enjoying the ribs, the Kansas City-style burnt ends, or the sausage, each dish is a standout. They also offer a more refined BBQ experience with a great selection of cocktails and a fantastic dessert menu that includes their famous banana cream pie.Must-Try: The ribs—perfectly tender, falling off the bone, and covered in a tangy sauce.
5. Fette Sau
Located in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood, Fette Sau is a go-to for those who appreciate traditional BBQ served in a laid-back, no-frills setting. The meats are smoked on-site, and the options are plentiful: from tender brisket to flavorful pork ribs and sausage. Fette Sau prides itself on serving high-quality meats that are perfectly seasoned and cooked. You can order by the pound and sample a variety of meats, and the atmosphere—complete with an industrial vibe—makes it an excellent place to enjoy BBQ with a group.Must-Try: The pulled pork and sausage, paired with the cornbread and pickles.
6. Smokestak
Smokestak in the heart of the Meatpacking District is the perfect blend of modern BBQ with a New York twist. The restaurant prides itself on using quality ingredients and offering a unique range of smoked meats. From tender brisket to charred chicken wings, each dish is packed with flavor. Their specials change seasonally, so you’re always in for something new. The sides are equally impressive, with the smoked potato salad and the cornbread being standout choices.Must-Try: The BBQ pork belly with the honey mustard glaze and the smoked beef ribs.
7. Jacob’s Pickles
For a more Southern-inspired, comfort-food style BBQ, Jacob’s Pickles on the Upper West Side has you covered. While they’re known for their pickles (obviously), their BBQ is where they really shine. Expect hearty portions of tender meat, with classics like pulled pork sandwiches and BBQ chicken, alongside dishes like fried chicken and mac and cheese. The vibe is fun, cozy, and perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.Must-Try: The fried chicken and biscuit with honey butter, served alongside the BBQ pulled pork.
8. The BrisketTown
If you’re a brisket enthusiast, then The BrisketTown in Williamsburg is your dream come true. Their specialty is, of course, the brisket, which is expertly smoked and served with a variety of sauces. The restaurant prides itself on its attention to detail, ensuring that each bite of meat is tender and flavorful. Their sides—like the pickled onions and mashed potatoes—perfectly complement the richness of the meats.Must-Try: The classic beef brisket, with a side of their creamy mac and cheese.
9. Fatty ‘Cue
Fatty ‘Cue in Brooklyn’s Carroll Gardens offers a more refined take on BBQ, blending Southern BBQ traditions with modern culinary techniques. They serve up delicious, tender meats with creative flavor combinations. The short ribs and smoked pork belly are standouts, and their signature spicy barbecue sauce adds an extra punch. The setting is trendy, and they also feature a nice selection of cocktails, making it a great place to enjoy both great food and drinks.Must-Try: The pork belly and the crispy chicken wings with their sweet-spicy sauce.
10. John Brown Smokehouse
Located in Long Island City, John Brown Smokehouse is a must-visit for fans of Kansas City-style BBQ. Known for their generous portions and smoky meats, this spot serves up mouthwatering ribs, brisket, and burnt ends. They also have a stellar selection of sides, with the cheesy corn casserole and baked beans being local favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a full BBQ feast, this place has you covered.Must-Try: The burnt ends platter and the corn casserole.
Conclusion: A Meat Lover’s Dream
No matter where you are in NYC, there’s a BBQ spot that’s bound to satisfy your craving for smoky, tender meats. Whether you’re indulging in a hearty platter at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que or enjoying the modern twist on classics at Fatty ‘Cue, these restaurants represent the best of NYC’s BBQ scene. Grab a napkin, bring your appetite, and prepare for a flavorful journey through the best BBQ that New York City has to offer!